Black Arrow R4 rocket in the Space Gallery, Science Museum, 2000.

Britain developed the Black Arrow as its national satellite launcher. It is based on the small Black Knight research rocket and is a 3-stage vehicle 13.1m tall. The first 2 stages are liquid fuelled, with the final stage using a single solid rocket motor. Although the first test in June 1969 failed the second test in March 1970 was succesful. A satellite was launched in September 1970 but in July 1971 the programme was cancelled.